The Southeastern Conference announced Thursday it will fine LSU $100,000 for the court storming that took place on Wednesday night after the men’s basketball team’s 75-74 win over No. 17 Kentucky.
Spectators ran onto the court after LSU’s Tyrell Ward sank a game-winning basket at the buzzer to top ranked Kentucky, enveloping the court and the celebrating student-athletes.
Fans entering the field of play violates SEC rules under the access to competition area policy, which was most recently updated in June 2023. The changes made included increased financial penalties as well as the money from the fine going to the opposing athletic program.
“For the safety of participants and spectators alike, at no time before, during or after a contest may spectators enter the competition area,” the policy reads.
$100,000 is the penalty for the first-time offense, with $250,000 for the second offense and $500,000 for the third offense and any following offenses.
As per SEC rules, the fine will be paid from LSU to Kentucky Athletics.
Many of the fans who rushed onto the court were students, including Angel Reese and other members of the women’s basketball team, who were attending the game in the student section.
LSU has been fined under this policy in the past, as well. In the 2022 football season, LSU was fined twice for rushing the field after wins over Ole Miss and Alabama, both resulting in a $250,000 penalty. At the time, $250,000 was the maximum penalty.
During the 2023 football season, Ole Miss was fined $100,000 for rushing the field after its win over LSU. That money was paid to LSU Athletics.
